Yuxin Penguin 2x2x2

YuXin Penguin 2x2x2

This is a collectible puzzle from YuXin's animal series. Inside, the YuXin Penguin 2x2x2 has a standard 2x2 cube mechanism. The outer pieces, however, are shaped so that when solved they form a penguin figure. It's a typical shape mod: the algorithms are the same as on a classic 2x2, but the look changes, and so does what you pay attention to while solving.

How to solve the 2x2 penguin

Once scrambled, the penguin loses its shape, and your goal is to put the whole figure back together. If you can solve a 2x2, you'll manage here too, but you'll need to adjust a little. Besides the colors, the shape of the pieces also matters, meaning where the head, belly, wings and feet end up. For many people, that's exactly what makes this puzzle so interesting.

Turning is smooth, with no catching at a normal pace. Corner cutting is decent for a puzzle of this type. The cube has no magnets, so the layers don't snap into place on their own, and when turning faster you need to be more precise. This isn't a puzzle for breaking records but one to solve for fun. Don't twist the corners by hand (corner twisting), as it's easy to damage a piece this way in 2x2 cubes.

Size and build

The penguin is quite big: it's about 13 cm tall and weighs about 183 g, so it's noticeably larger than a standard 2x2 cube. The large pieces are easy to grip, and you can clearly see what's happening with the puzzle. This makes it easier for younger solvers. The colors are in the plastic (stickerless), and the surface has no UV coating.

Who is it for?

Above all, for collectors of shape mods and YuXin animals. The same series also includes a mouse, tiger, panda and rabbit, among others. The penguin is also a great choice for someone who can already solve a 2x2 and wants something different from yet another classic cube. It's also a good gift for a child who enjoys puzzles. If they're just starting out, it will be easier to master a regular 2x2 first and then apply that knowledge to the figure. A solved penguin also looks great on a shelf.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: YuXin
• Type: penguin-shaped 2x2x2 cube shape mod
• Dimensions: approx. 125 x 112 x 130 mm
• Weight: approx. 183 g
• Magnets: none
• Finish: stickerless, no UV coating
• Color variant: Stickerless Bright
• Release year: 2020
• Allowed in official competitions: no
• In the box: puzzle